Background
The pilot departed on a VFR flight despite forecasts of instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) and icing along the route. After departure, the pilot filed an IFR flight plan and subsequently entered IMC conditions. Shortly thereafter, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power that could not be corrected by applying carburetor heat. At the onset of the emergency, the pilot also reported a loss of cabin heat. The cabin heat was drawn from the same source as carburetor heat, upstream of the carburetor.
Weather Conditions
An AIRMET for icing issued prior to departure indicated light to occasional moderate rime icing in clouds below 8,000 feet, with conditions continuing beyond 1600 through 2200. A National Weather Service Area Forecast for the route predicted overcast ceilings at 2,000 to 3,000 feet with tops to 12,000 feet, and occasional light snow showers. Weather reported 10 miles southeast of the accident site included few clouds at 200 feet, a broken ceiling at 700 feet, and an overcast ceiling at 1,100 feet. Visibility was 1/4 mile in light snow and freezing fog. Winds were from 250 degrees at 23 knots gusting to 31 knots.
Aircraft Information
The airplane was not equipped with de-icing or anti-icing equipment.